Back in May, I had the pleasure of attending London’s @Gala-Festival, which took place in May on Peckham Rye Common, and together we collaborated on this month’s episode featuring one of London’s most exciting jazz musicians and composers, @Nubya-Garcia.

Born in London, Nubya is not only a saxophonist, but also a composer and a bandleader, having first taken up the saxophone at the age of 10. Her time spent with youth music workshops like Tomorrow’s Warriors was formative for her as a young person, thriving in a community of like-minded musical souls — a necessity in jazz music, which finds its heart in collaboration. Despite that or perhaps because of it, Nubya has nevertheless found her own voice in jazz, with albums like 2021’s Source speaking to her triumphant rhythms, her openness, and her expressive energy. In this conversation, Nubya and I get into jazz music, collaboration, and finding your voice.

Big thanks to GALA Festival for making this very special one happen!

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Music:

"The Message Continues" - Nubya Garcia (2020)

"La cumbia me está llamando" - Nubya Garcia ft. La Perla (2020)

"Together Is A Beautiful Place To Be" - Nubya Garcia (Nala Sinephro Remix)(2021)

"Source" - Nubya Garcia (2018)

"When We Are" - Nubya Garcia (2018)